Competition dance (1)

Competitive dance, or DanceSport, is divided into standard and Latin dances such as the waltz, tango and foxtrot, and the cha-cha, rumba and jive. A coach teaches a couple the steps, posture and leading, and later also the choreography that judges assess at competitions.

Many start competitive dancing as children, but clubs also have recreational groups for teenagers and adults. At first the basic steps are danced in a group, and once a suitable partner is found you move on to couple training and private lessons. Competing takes a partner, costumes and regular practice, so it is a long-term commitment.

Before choosing a club, ask whether it helps you find a partner, how many group and private lessons there are per week and whether the coach goes to competitions with the students. Also find out what competition costs consist of and whether you can train without the goal of competing.